Bathers Drawing

after Duncan Grant (1885–1978)

Study (of, or for) The Bathers c.1930 NGV

Wonderful drawing in pencil of nude male figures, in the style of Grant. 1930s British art deco style, presumably a later student or artist copy. I can't find another similar drawing of this composition. The artist has such a beautiful insight into the human form, gaze and and desire.

Sheet measurements 29 cm x 32.2 cm, approx 11,5" x 12,7" approx.
On thick art paper. Sold unframed, condition as pictured.

About: In early 1928, Duncan Grant wrote to a friend: ‘I am going to London tomorrow where I must finish a picture which some say is indecent.’ The picture was The bathers, a document of past friendships and liaisons. Although the majority of Grant’s lovers were men, his most enduring relationship was with Bloomsbury Group artist Vanessa Bell (who was in an open marriage with the art critic Clive Bell). Throughout Grant and Bell’s relationship, which resulted in a daughter and ended only with Bell’s death in 1961, Grant continued to have affairs with men. He described himself causing ‘havoc’ because he fell in and out of love so readily, but he and Bell shared a love of art that transcended Grant’s romantic indecisiveness.